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ENFIELD TOWN COUNCIL
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2005
A Regular Meeting of the Enfield Town Council was called to order by Chairman Tallarita in the Council Chambers of Enfield Town Hall, 820 Enfield Street, Enfield, Connecticut on Tuesday, February 22, 2005. The meeting was called to order at 7:32 p.m.
PRAYER - The Prayer was given by Councilman Mangini.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - The Pledge of Allegiance was said.
ROLL-CALL - Present were Councilmen Crowley, Dodd, Edgar, Egan, Fiore, Kaupin, Mangini, Peruta, Reveruzzi, and Tallarita. Councilman Tait was absent. Also present were Town Manager, Scott Shanley; Town Clerk, Suzanne Olechnicki and Town Attorney, Christopher Bromson.
FIRE EVACUATION ANNOUNCEMENT
Chairman Tallarita made the fire evacuation announcement.
MINUTES OF PRECEDING MEETINGS
MOTION #7602 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Egan to accept the minutes of the February 7, 2005 Special Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7602 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #7603 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Edgar to accept the minutes of the February 7, 2005 Regular Meeting.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7603 adopted 10-0-0.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Edward Peruta, 38 Parish Road, Rocky Hill, Connecticut
Stated he's involved with a program that is televised in Enfield. He added he has been instrumental in making cable access work for a community. He stated if the Town Council would like their meetings televised live, there is a live drop located at the gazebo and possibly that line can be extended to the Town Hall. He stated his impression Cox Cable only needs a request from a politician to make that happen, along with an expression of appreciation at a public hearing.
Mr. Peruta pointed out a Cox Cable re-franchising public hearing is scheduled in May, and time is of the essence if the Council wishes to bring forth any items. He noted the authority of the Cable Advisory Committee has been severely limited by the DPUC. He stated the FCC and federal government give the DPUC the ability to mandate public education on cable companies. He pointed out Enfield will not get live drops unless they ask, demand, or advocate for them.
Mr. Peruta stated there are elderly and homebound people who are unable to attend Council meetings. He added these meetings would also be televised in nursing homes. He noted these people represent absentee ballots at election time.
James Smith, 9 Marble Road
Stated his mother-in-law, who is homebound, would appreciate being able to watch live Council meetings on television.
Mr. Smith stated he would not mind an increase in his mill rate for education if it meant there was something to show for it. He voiced concern about test scores for Grades 4th, 6th and 8th and some of the scholastic areas regarding the No Child Left Behind Act. He noted he's also concerned about social problems in the secondary schools concerning drugs and when it's difficult to tell the students from the teachers because of the clothes they wear.
Mr. Smith stated his road wasn't plowed until 6:00 p.m. during the last big snowstorm and this left people homebound on his street all day. He noted when they did plow his street, it took approximately six minutes to plow 24 inches of snow.
Ronald Prostka, 34 Foxcroft Road
Stated he would like Town Council meetings televised.
Mr. Prostka stated there's a problem with plowed snow blocking handicap access on Foxcroft Road. He stated handicap sidewalks should be kept clean so that people can use them.
Agnes Mercik, 19 Jewel Street
Voiced her opposition to renaming Enfield Central Library. She acknowledged that Roxy Burke did a lot for Enfield and she appreciates his contributions to the Town. She suggested naming the newly renovated area in the library for Mr. Burke. She concluded suggesting the Council spend their valuable time on more urgent matters than renaming Town buildings.
Richard Adams, 12 Cartier Road
Stated he's representing a group called Friends of Recreation and noted they appreciate there's some positive discussion going on regarding the attempt to address the high school athletic fields. He noted this group offers their assistance in any way to keep this item moving forward.
Karen Weseliza, 25 Renee Lane
Voiced her support of naming a building for Roxy Burke. She stated her belief it is appropriate to recognize people who have contributed greatly to the community.
Kathy Rumore, 25 Nancy Drive
Voiced her support of renaming the library for Roxy Burke. She spoke of Mr. Burke's commitment to Enfield. She stated her belief it's important to recognize and acknowledge these kinds of contributions.
Nikki Price, 6F The Hamlet
Referred to the proposed name change of the Enfield Library and raised the following questions:
- Regarding Councilman Crowley's inquiry into grant money and private donations to fund the cost of the name change, how much has been raised so far?
- What is the cost projection to implement the name change?
- Is the Council planning to vote on the renaming of the library this evening?
She pointed out the answers she learned is that no money has been raised so far, there's no idea of the cost of the renaming, and the Democratic majority is pressing for a vote on the name change.
She questioned if it's prudent to vote on a name change when there's no concrete information upon which to base an intelligent decision. She pointed out there's more involved than simply changing the letterhead and erecting a new sign at the library. She stated there are thousands of books, videos, DVD's and CD's carrying the Enfield Public Library name and these would have to be changed. She noted the printer's dye cast molds for the Enfield Public Library bags would have to be changed, as well as notification having to go out about the name change.
Ms. Price stated her opinion the cost to implement this name change will not be in the thousands of dollars, but in the tens of thousands of dollars. She questioned if the grant money and private funding does not materialize or falls very short of the cost of this name change, where would the money be allocated from to pay for this name change. She questioned if there's a projection of how long it will take to absorb the cost. She noted these questions should be answered before a vote is taken. She stated her impression this cost isn't part of a budgetary item that can be authorized by the Council. She questioned if this is an item that needs to be put to referendum for the citizens to decide as to whether this cost is appropriate.
Ms. Price stated her belief proper government practices are not being followed as demonstrated by the expeditious speed that the majority of the Council appears to be taking. She suggested the Town get a cost for this change.
Charles Woods, 11 Westerly Drive
Stated the Council has impressed upon the people the rules of no back and forth discussion between the Council and the public. He noted if that's the case, the members of the Council should not be asking questions of anyone in the audience unless they expect an answer back. He stated he would like to publicly answer the question that was asked of him at a previous meeting and that was "why does he or the group he represents keep talking about referendums?" He explained before the last election, this Council had a lot of items that needed to be handled by referendums. He noted instead of telling the public about the whole gamut of referendums that need to be voted on, they've been "plunking" one at a time figuring the Town will vote each one in as it comes up because they don't know the whole picture. He stated they've run politics in Enfield previously whereby the people aren't given the whole picture and they think they're only voting on one issue, while it's exactly a whole series of issues. He noted this is why there's an objection as to how it's being done. He stated they don't object to referendums. He added they still would like to be able to vote on the budget and they would like to change the form of government.
Referring to the education budget, Mr. Woods stated not enough money is getting to the students. He stated his belief that's the reason why parents are coming in stating the Board of Education should be getting more money. He stated his belief there's something wrong with the school system because it's eating up all those dollars instead of taking care of the students.
Mr. Woods stated another problem with the school system is that teachers teach to a test. He referred to the No Child Left Behind Act and stated his belief it's unfair of the state and federal government to expect a child to get more than 50% of a test if they're not capable of doing so. He stated his belief they should teach them to their highest capability. He pointed out Enfield has the right to say they won't follow a mandate. He noted everyone is under the assumption the Town would lose a lot of money if they did this, however, Somers only lost money for the specific program that they did not agree to go along with.
Mr. Woods stated education salaries are spiraling out of control and the number of teachers and administrators are bulging out of the buildings. He stated his belief these are the things they need to get control of. He pointed out the Town Council holds the purse strings, and they're the ones that have to convince the Board of Education they need to start trimming.
Jack Sheridan, 8 Buchanan Road
Voiced his support of Council meetings being televised.
Mr. Sheridan stated he is against changing the name of the library.
He stated they shouldn't handicap the Board of Education by allowing huge raises for the administrators and the teachers. He noted teachers and administrators claim the funding is for the students, however, they won't say they'll take a freeze in pay or benefits to preserve the students' education.
Mr. Sheridan stated due to the threat of binding arbitration, the school budget is out of control. He noted enrollment is down by 130 students and the per capita income in Enfield is $21,967. He stated his belief they have to replace tenure-based teachers' contracts with a merit-based system.
He stated his belief they have to look closely at how the school budget is being spent.
Margaret Jedziniak, 232 Abbe Road
Stated she is not against education, but she is against the bloated education budget being proposed. She noted the 4th grade students are reading below state average and the drop out rate is above state average. She stated she requested information from the Board of Education to learn how many students are in remedial reading.
Ms. Jedziniak stated the increase of the education budget is too high. She noted state school grants are not listed as revenue in Enfield's school budget and this figure is sometimes over $2 million dollars. She stated teachers' salaries don't include the amount in benefits that they receive, and that figure is over $9 million dollars this year for 546 teachers. She noted from the day they were hired, approximately 25 administrators are awarded five weeks vacation, 18 sick days, 12 holidays and numerous stipends. She stated the Superintendent receives a base pay plus an annuity, a car or mileage, plus a very large split life insurance policy which he asked to receive rather than a raise so there will be no taxes on it. She noted if one of the couple dies, one gets $750,000 and the other gets $500,000.
She stated the Board of Education's capital projects are not paid for out of the school budget, but rather they're paid for on the Town side of the budget.
Ms. Jedziniak stated approximately $10 million dollars will be spent on supplies, etc., while the balance of $65.5 million dollars would go to salaries and benefits. She pointed out some personnel received raises of $9,000 to $10,000 in the last three years. She noted some people's base pay was $71,000 plus four stipends amounted to $80,000. She pointed out this is not bad for 108 working days.
Ms. Jedziniak stated if a Board of Education member can't pay their car taxes, how can it be expected for seniors on fixed income to pay their bills.
Robert Tkacz, 1300 Enfield Street
Stated about 12 years ago, George Perry was the principal of Henry Barnard School and he ran the curriculum and testing program. He noted now there are two curriculum directors and people being hired to do the testing program. He questioned why one man was able to do all of these jobs with 7,000 students, and now there are a thousand students less, but there are more staff and administrators.
Mr. Tkacz stated the Town Council is going to have to zero out the Board of Education budget. He noted the educational program is not doing well.
He stated the Council needs to show all the costs when they are going to do something like implement condo trash pick up or changing the library's name. He agreed with the previous speaker in that it's a major undertaking to change the name of a library.
Mr. Tkacz stated the food service operation within the school system is not in the budget. He pointed out this is a multi-million dollar operation with 400 employees. He feels this should be audited and it should be included in the school budget.
Sheila Monroe, Stacy Lane
Stated her children attend Enfield Street School and she was upset about the idea of changing the name of that school. She noted she has no problem with giving a new building, street, or memorial a name for any politician. She went on to note there should be a list of people who deserve to have a place named after them, and there should be a vote by the citizens. She concluded stating she's against renaming something that's already been named, as well as the costs to implement such a change.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS & PETITIONS
Councilman Mangini stated the Chamber of Commerce Home Show will be at the Kohl's Plaza this weekend.
MOTION #7604 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to suspend the rules to address Items 13 c., d., and g. under Miscellaneous this evening.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7604 adopted 10-0-0.
Councilman Fiore apologized to Mr. Woods for not letting him finish his comments at the last Council meeting. He thanked Mr. Woods for his comments this evening.
Councilman Kaupin stated he talked to Congressman Simmons' office today about rescheduling their meeting to April 18th.
Councilman Kaupin stated his belief it would be a great idea to televise the Council meetings. He agreed they probably could use the live drop from the gazebo. He noted they need to get more details as to how this can be done.
Councilman Peruta requested an update on EMS.
Councilman Peruta noted live Council meetings are fine, but it would be beneficial to tape them so they can be shown different times of the day.
Councilman Peruta questioned what is the actual cost per student for education in Enfield.
Councilman Peruta stated if she's interested, he can give Ms. Jedziniak a list of all the Board of Education grants, both federal and state.
Councilman Peruta stated there is a property tax relief program aimed at people 65 years or older, disabled, owning a house in Enfield, earning under $27,100 if single or $33,000 for a couple.
Chairman Tallarita read a letter into the record.
(In favor of renaming the Central Library in memory of Francis "Roxy" Burke)
Chairman Tallarita stated his belief the entire Council would like to see meetings televised. He noted in the past they've relied on a volunteer to tape meetings when he was able to. He noted they will look into this further.
Chairman Tallarita announced the "Mayor's Family Fitness Program". He invited everyone to participate by taking advantage of eight free weeks at Health Trax. He noted participants would sign a commitment to the program, and they can use the entire facility. He added there are clinics on how to quit smoking, how to deal with child health issues, etc. He noted for each individual that completes the program, businesses will pledge money which will go toward outside recreational facilities. He noted participants can also get pledges from family and friends.
TOWN MANAGER REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
Mr. Shanley stated the new EMS Director starts on March 9th. He noted the application for paramedic service has gone into OEMS and they are hoping for approval soon. He noted this will enable them to simply provide paramedic services. He went on to note defibrillators are being deployed in cars and he's been told by Councilman Tait that the Maciolek Post is going to be presenting a donation for half the cost of the defibrillators, which is exceedingly generous.
Mr. Shanley stated a committee has been working and established a job description for EMT's and Paramedics, as well as a testing program for the same. He noted they will begin that process relatively quickly after the EMS Director is on board. He stated they will also be recruiting volunteers immediately upon the Director being on board.
Councilman Peruta stated the hiring committee had representatives from hospitals and fire departments. Mr. Shanley stated the committee included one of the fire chiefs, the Town's Personnel Director, a representative from the hospital and Dr. Bizilj consulted on the hiring process. He noted they made an effort to get people who really understand the system to be on the hiring committee.
Mr. Shanley stated a big snowstorm can cost $70,000 to $90,000 and plowing is done by their permanent staff. He noted it would cost more to get to the smaller roads more quickly in a big storm.
TOWN ATTORNEY REPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
Attorney Bromson stated the New London taking case has reached the Supreme Court and was argued today. He noted this will have an impact across the nation. He explained when a municipality takes property for a school, a road, or a project, it has always been acknowledged this can be done. He noted this is a little different because it's economic development for the Pfizer Company, and it's more of a private venture that would benefit the community. He stated Senior Assistant Town Attorney, Maria Stavropoulous, went to observe this oral argument, therefore, the Council can get a first-hand account.
REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES OF THE COUNCIL
Councilman Mangini stated the Fourth of July Committee has been meeting and moving forward with a great celebration for this year.
OLD BUSINESS
MOTION #7605 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove Item 8 from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7605 adopted 10-0-0.
NOMINATION #7606 by Councilman Fiore to appoint Denise McGill (D) to the Commission on Aging for a term which expires 12/31/07.
MOTION #7607 by Councilman Kaupin, seconded by Councilman Egan to close nominations.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7607 adopted 10-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared Denise McGill appointed to the Commission on Aging by a 10-0-0 vote.
All other appointments remained tabled.
Item c. remained tabled.
MOTION #7608 by Councilman Reveruzzi, seconded by Councilman Edgar to remove Item d. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7608 adopted 10-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: COMMUNITY CENTER/OLD SENIOR CENTER
Councilman Reveruzzi stated they have the first draft of the recommendations to the Council, and those recommendations will be reviewed at tomorrow's meeting. He noted if there aren't too many changes, they would like to bring that before the Council at their first meeting in March.
MOTION #7609 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Mangini to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7609 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #7610 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove Item e. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7610 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #7611 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to take a brief recess.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7611 adopted 10-0-0, and the meeting stood recessed at 8:49 p.m.
Chairman Tallarita reconvened the meeting at 8:55 p.m.
DISCUSSION RE: CHARGE FOR ENFIELD REVITALIZATION STRATEGY COMMITTEE
Councilman Fiore stated a couple minor changes were made to the resolution. He noted they're recommending the new commission have a three-year life to March 30, 2008; decrease the membership to 15 residents; decrease the number of residents they would attempt to have from each voting district from seven to five; add further language about the commission developing goals, plans, and strategies to recommend to the Council on the various objectives; the Committee would report to the Council on a quarterly basis with all its findings and recommendations; the Committee would use the Town Council as the vehicle for coordinating any efforts within the other various commissions and boards. He noted in addition to this, based on Chairman Lee's recommendations, they tried to change some of the actual things they would like them to work on. He listed goals as follows:
- continue to develop strategies in order to promote the two village districts in a manner that encourages revitalization efforts
- working with the Town's published priorities in the Plan of Conservation and Development, they would follow some particular objectives:
1. Develop a plan to maintain the Town's residential character and historic properties.
2. Develop and promote the concept of the new Thompsonville train station and transit center.
3. Investigate the Strand Theater, the Old Senior Center and Hazardville Institute
Councilman Fiore stated the Main Street program was eliminated from this resolution.
He noted they removed the liaison for the Beautification Committee because it was felt the Revitalization Committee has gone beyond the beautification part of the effort. He added the Beautification Committee has been somewhat reconstituted and doing a fine job themselves.
Councilman Kaupin stated he met with Chairman Lee last week and showed him this document and he's in agreement with the wording. Chairman Lee stated the one piece missing is the design review entity for the Thompsonville Village District. He noted at the appropriate time, he would like to see put into a resolution that they would perform responsibilities consistent with Section 5.40 of the Town Zoning Ordinance in the review plans within the Thompsonville Village District. He stated that is a role given to them by the Zoning Ordinance and should be reflected in the charge of the committee. He suggested it could be added as letter "D".
Councilman Reveruzzi stated his only concern was that this streamline the process of doing business within the village areas. He noted they could get into dictating certain landscaping or the number of parking spaces, and those things fall within the purview of Planning & Zoning. He stated he's a little concerned because he's unsure they can pass a resolution that conflicts with the zoning requirements. He noted he gets concerned when he sees a layering of requirements put on individuals who they're trying to attract into an area and have them take on the responsibility of improving that area.
Mr. Shanley stated Planning and Zoning doesn't have to agree with the advice that is given.
Councilman Reveruzzi stated he'd rather wait on this resolution and get some input from P&Z regarding whether or not they think that section is a requirement.
Councilman Kaupin pointed out P&Z wrote this into their zoning ordinance because they wanted the input from this group.
Councilman Egan stated she is impressed with the fact they're using the Plan of Conservation and Development as a basis for this. She noted this is the peoples' plan, and she's glad to see it incorporated into many things that they do. She stated her impression everything in here appears to be well thought out.
Councilman Edgar stated he would like this reviewed by the Town Attorney's office before the Council acts on it.
Councilman Mangini pointed out there will be feedback from one P&Z liaison.
Councilman Fiore stated he does not want to set up something that's going to cause conflict. He noted the Revitalization Committee needs to be doing goals, strategies and reporting to the Council. He stated the Council then becomes their spokesperson for other committees and commissions. Mr. Shanley clarified this committee has a legal responsibility to review plans that are occurring within the village district. Councilman Fiore stated his belief they add more credence to that by having it within the resolution.
Councilman Dodd stated they're asking people in the community to have input in given areas and how the Town does things. He noted by removing that from this committee, which has served the town so well in the past, they would be removing that input from the people who are looking out for the best interest of the village.
Councilman Mangini stated she would go with leaving Section D out at this point.
Councilman Crowley suggested asking P&Z what they want to do.
Chairman Tallarita stated for the most part, it seems everyone is comfortable with most of the language within the resolution and they're comfortable with recharging this Committee and going forward. He noted they could get P&Z's feelings on this and have the Town Attorney's Office review this as well before the next Town Council meeting. Mr. Shanley stated he would ask P&Z if they're looking to change the Zoning Ordinance that currently requires the Enfield Revitalization Committee to comment on Thompsonville district plans.
MOTION #7612 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Fiore to retable this item.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7612 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #7613 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to remove Item f. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7613 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #7614 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Fiore.
RESOLVED, that the Town Council of the Town of Enfield hereby accepts the amendments to the Alarm Ordinance as attached hereto.
Attorney Bromson stated this is a nation-wide problem, and it's believed 98% of alarms are false.
Councilman Edgar referred to Section 7-16 and noted a date needs to be filled in.
AMENDMENT #1 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Mangini to use the date of April 1, 2005 in Section 7-16.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared AMENDMENT #1 adopted 10-0-0.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #7614 adopted 10-0-0 as amended.
MOTION #7615 by Councilman Egan, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to remove Item g. from the table.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7615 adopted 10-0-0.
DISCUSSION WITH CONGRESSMAN SIMMONS
Councilman Egan stated her belief they don't necessarily need this item on the agenda any longer.
MOTION #7616 by Councilman Egan, seconded by Councilman Kaupin to remove Item g. from the agenda.
Councilman Fiore stated he's a little hesitant to remove this item from the agenda until they have a meeting with Congressman Simmons.
Councilman Egan stated her belief it is and has been inappropriate to have this on the agenda.
Councilman Edgar stated it bothers him to have this on the agenda, but it bothers him more to take it off the agenda because of the number of times this has been postponed. He added his belief this should remain on the agenda until that meeting happens.
Councilman Kaupin stated he has been on the Council for twelve years and never have they had an item on the agenda to meet with a Congressman. He requested adding items under Items for Discussion - one item for a meeting with Senator Dodd and another item for a meeting with Senator Lieberman, and those items can remain on the agenda until they come and meet with the Council. He stated it is a wrong request to have this on the agenda. He noted the Congressman cannot come to a Council meeting in Enfield because he would then set a precedent and he would have to go to every other elected body in his district. The Congressman told them this and he's willing to meet at his Thompsonville office. Councilman Kaupin stated his belief the Democrats wish to keep this on the agenda to embarrass the Congressman, and he feels it's shameful that it's on the agenda.
Chairman Tallarita stated this was left on the agenda for the purpose of meeting with Congressman Simmons about a couple issues. He noted they also had on the agenda the meeting with their state representative and state senator, and they were removed from the agenda once they met with them.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7616
defeated 3-7-0, with Councilmen Dodd, Egan and Kaupin voting in favor of the motion.
MOTION #7617 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Mangini to re-table Item g.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7617 adopted 10-0-0.
NEW BUSINESS
MOTION #7618 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to accept the Consent Agenda.
Transfer of Funds 5100-334 Technological Services Library to 5100-733 Furniture and Fixtures$1,000
Transfer of Funds 4400-17050 Senior Center Misc Contributions to 4400-550 Senior Center Printing & Reproduction $1,000
Transfer of Funds 13990 Misc State Revenue to 5100-6067-339 Prof Svcs, 5100-6067-535 Postage, 5100-6067-442 Equipment Rental $10,000
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7618 adopted 10-0-0.
Appointments under New Business will appear under Old Business on the next agenda.
RESOLUTION #7619 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Peruta.
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Chapter VI, Section 8(f) of the Town Charter, the following transfer is hereby made;
TO: Registrar of Voters
Acct. #1500-134 Salaries, Election Workers $10,780.00
Acct. #1500-423 Custodial 20.00
Acct. #1500-442 Rental Equipment 203.00
Acct. #1500-540 Advertising 176.00
Acct. #1500-550 Printing & Reproduction 210.00
__________
$11,389.00
FROM: Acct. #8030-840 Contingency $11,389.00
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify the amount of $11,389.00 is available from Account #8030-840 as of January 13, 2005.
/s/ Gregory Simmons, Director of Finance
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #7619 adopted 10-0-0.
DISCUSSION RE: NAMING CENTRAL LIBRARY
Chairman Tallarita stated his belief there's confusion that the Council was renaming the Enfield Public Library to the Francis Roxy Burke Library, but rather they are suggesting it be named the Francis Roxy Burke Enfield Central Library. He stated the whole system of government in Enfield is based on volunteerism, and he believes there should be some recognition of Mr. Burke for his volunteerism.
Chairman Tallarita stated he is not suggesting they vote on this tonight, but rather that they do get further comment from people. As concerns costs, he noted this would be a phased-in approach. He noted it wouldn't have to happen overnight.
As concerns the comments about not changing the name of a building, Chairman Tallarita pointed out the Neighborhood Activity Center was renamed for Angelo Lamagna. He added his belief this was a fine recognition of a good man. He pointed out the Public Works garage was named after another individual. He stated his belief this provides further identify for the community by recognizing people who contributed to the community.
Chairman Tallarita stated there are a number of people who are very much in favor of this and believe this is a fine recognition for a fine person. He acknowledged there are some people who don't want change.
Councilman Kaupin stated his belief they should have a policy concerning the practice of naming buildings. He noted this policy should really value public input, i.e., having a public hearing specifically on a proposal to name a building so that they can get feedback. He noted there should also be a list of proposed names. He stated they have to find a way to remove personalities from the issue. He went on to note there is no building in Enfield named after a politician. He pointed out Messrs. Lamagna and Jablonski were long-standing employees of the town and served well. He went on to note that the policy should be very stringent so that it's not a simple majority.
Councilman Kaupin stated at their leadership meeting Chairman Tallarita stated he was going to push for a vote on this tonight. He noted he's glad the Chairman decided not to bring this to a vote this evening.
Councilman Egan referred to an editorial in the Hartford Courant concerning this topic where credit was given to the Board of Education for coming through with a responsible policy and it was suggested the Town Council do the same thing.
Councilman Dodd agreed a policy should be established. He pointed out there is a good-sized room at the library that deals with children's books and that could easily be named for Mr. Burke.
Councilman Reveruzzi stated perhaps there should be some guidelines in doing this. He pointed out one building in town named after a politician is the JFK Middle School. He voiced concern that this process is being politicized.
Councilman Fiore agreed with Councilman Reveruzzi in that it seems this process is being politicized. He stated Councilman Kaupin brought up a good point about having some type of process, however, he doesn't believe the Public Hearing process always works. He noted the Public Hearing process could easily be manipulated. He stated the Council is elected to make some decisions. He noted they make a lot of good decisions, and they make some bad decisions. He pointed out if people do not like the decisions they make, they won't get the votes.
Councilman Peruta agreed with Councilman Kaupin about a policy. He noted he's unsure about the Public Hearing process. He agreed that naming things in the community after local people does bring identity to the community. Councilman Edgar stated his belief Roxy Burke is certainly deserving of this honor. He stated his belief this should not be a political issue. He agreed they do need a process and that they should table this until a process is developed.
Chairman Tallarita stated there is a process in place. He noted the Council is elected to make decisions. He noted sometimes the Council makes decisions the public likes, or perhaps they don't. He stated if the public doesn't like the decisions the Council makes, they can vote them out of office. He noted he does not want to see this politicized.
This item will appear under Old Business on the next agenda
Item e. will appear under Old Business on the next agenda.
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION
The Consent Agenda item will appear under New Business on the next agenda.
The appointment to the 100 High Street Building Committee will appear under New Business on the next agenda.
DISCUSSION RE: COX CABLE FRANCHISE RENEWAL
Present for this discussion was Director of Libraries, Henry Dutcher.
Mr. Dutcher stated the Cable Advisory Commission meetings are telecast by Walter Shermer on Channel 15 on Friday at 7:00 p.m. two weeks after the meeting.
Mr. Dutcher stated Cox has filed their franchise renewal application with the DPUC. He noted before they filed that application they provided the opportunity for the town to provide input. He noted not one item suggested by the Commission was included. He explained they asked for things such as grants being made so that people could be educated in the public access process. He noted Comcast does this in a number of their franchise areas. He stated they asked if Cox could do drops in places other than the schools, and Cox responded they only wished to do public drops in schools. He stated he would be surprised if Cox would move the drop from the gazebo to Town Hall because he has never heard anything but a negative response from Cox. He went on to note they're actually talking about dropping all the public libraries out of their free drops. He noted the Enfield Public Library has a long-standing public drop which existed before Cox.
Mr. Dutcher stated they very specifically asked Cox to keep their education technology grants and that they increase that grant, however, it's been removed entirely.
Mr. Dutcher stated the Chairman of the Committee, Alex Frasier, was unable to attend this evening's meeting. He reviewed with the Council an e-mail Mr. Frasier sent him. He listed what the franchise renewal agreement is calling for as follows:
- A revised formula for calculation of the public access support going to a per subscriber-based figure vs. the lump sum that is presently used - the net result is a reduction in funding
- The elimination of the $8,000 education technology grant
- Language indicates a move from analog to digital
- Viewer surveys done on a state-wide basis, rather than by franchise
Mr. Dutcher stated he lives in Longmeadow and his cable company is Comcast. He noted in the five years that he has worked in Enfield, Cox Cable has removed over a dozen analog channels from Enfield's service. He pointed out Comcast removed only one channel in 18 years. He stated Cox Cable is aggressively trying to get rid of their analog service. He noted there's a United States congressional resolution that analog service is to go by the wayside and that the entire U.S. is to move to digital. He stated the problem for this franchise area is that Cox is trying to do it aggressively by just denigrating the analog service to the point where people will no longer want it. He pointed out Comcast is leaving the analog knowing at some point a deadline will be enforced, however, they are not going to take service away in the way Cox seems intent on doing. He added Comcast broadcasts all the Town Selectman and School Board meetings live and then rebroadcasts them. He noted all other important meetings are broadcast live, as well as high school football games.
He stated if an aggressive effort isn't made, Enfield will not only not get things, but Enfield will lose a considerable amount in the next franchise renewal.
Councilman Peruta stated he's left with the impression this is a lost cause. Mr. Dutcher stated he doesn't know if it's entirely a lost cause. He noted it's a lost cause if Enfield accepts things the way they are at the moment. He stated Cox is not responsive to the Cable Advisory Committee. He noted Enfield needs a very aggressive resolution to Cox Cable about their franchise renewal agreement. He stated this is not only needed from the Enfield Town Council, but it's needed from all of the governing bodies of all nine franchise towns.
Mr. Shanley suggested taking those things the Committee felt were important and add in those things that the Council would like to see and structure them into a Council resolution. He suggested getting a commitment from Enfield Councilmen to attend the hearing with other councilmen from other locations. He further suggested calling Peter Talbot to remind him about his statement that all he needed was a phone call from a
politician to get a live drop. Mr. Dutcher suggested inviting Mr. Talbot to come before the Council.
Councilman Dodd questioned whether it would be beneficial to contact Cox Cable about other services they provide. He noted townspeople can contact them and tell them they are considering changing services, i.e., DSL and telephone if they continue this way. Mr. Dutcher stated it takes a certain tipping point for that to work, and it takes an education effort to make that happen.
Mr. Shanley pointed out Mr. Dutcher and the committee has been working on this.
DISCUSSION/RESOLUTION RE: YOUTH SERVICES GRANT APPLICATION FOR COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO COMBATING UNDERAGE DRINKING
Present from Enfield Youth Services was Jean Haughey.
Ms. Haughey stated they were presented with an opportunity to apply for a $20,000 grant to combat underage drinking. She noted three things are required to apply for this grant. She stated they need to increase enforcement capacity, inform and educate parents as well as build assets in their youth.
Mr. Shanley stated this grant requires Council action.
Councilman Fiore voiced his concern about one-year grants and the possibility of not getting the grant the following year. Ms. Haughey stated they have to apply every year, and if they can meet their goals, they have a good chance of getting the grant again.
Councilman Fiore questioned what happens if they aren't approved for the grant in the following year. Ms. Haughey stated they could look into other non-funded ways to keep the initiatives going.
Councilman Fiore questioned whether Ms. Haughey approached both high school principals regarding this, and Ms. Haughey responded yes. She went on to note there are federal grants as well, but they are not prepared to apply for those at this time. She stated they first have to take these "baby steps."
Councilman Crowley questioned if this grant has been in place for awhile. Ms. Haughey responded yes, but this is the first time Enfield is applying for it. Councilman Crowley supported this endeavor.
Councilman Kaupin voiced his support of this grant.
Councilman Peruta stated his belief this is a good idea and he voiced his support of pursuing this grant.
MOTION #7620 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Edgar to suspend the rules to address this item under Miscellaneous this evening.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7620 adopted 10-0-0.
MISCELLANEOUS
RESOLUTION #7621 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Egan.
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Connecticut State Statutes, the Enfield town Council does hereby authorize the transfer of $319,576.25 to the Suspense List as follows:
October 1, 2000 Supplemental Motor Vehicle Taxes $25,310.65
October 1, 2001 Personal Property Taxes $68,529.29
October 1, 2001 Motor Vehicle Taxes $225,736.31
Councilman Fiore stated his understanding this stays on the books for another 15 years and the suspense list is higher this year than last year. He acknowledged things may be equal as real estate and car values increase. Mr. Shanley pointed out the enormous efforts that have gone on in the last four years to collect previously uncollectible taxes. He noted that although the suspense list goes up, the Town's collection rate has been very good the last few years.
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #7621 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #7622 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to waive the reading of the resolution. (Item 13d)
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7622 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #7623 by Councilman Mangini, seconded by Councilman Edgar.
Breaking Down Barriers Grant
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #7623 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #7624 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Mangini to waive the reading of the resolution. (Item 13g)
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7624 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #7625 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Kaupin.
Congregate Living Weekend Meals Program
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #7625 adopted 10-0-0.
MOTION #7626 by Councilman Fiore, seconded by Councilman Mangini to waive the reading of the resolution. (Item #13f)
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7626 adopted 10-0-0.
RESOLUTION #7627 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Mangini.
Youth Services Grant Application for Comprehensive Approach to Combating Underage Drinking
Upon a ROLL-CALL vote being taken, the Chair declared RESOLUTION #7627 adopted 10-0-0.
COUNCILMEN COMMUNICATIONS
There were no further comments.
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION #7628 by Councilman Edgar, seconded by Councilman Mangini to adjourn.
Upon a SHOW-OF-HANDS vote being taken, the Chair declared MOTION #7628 adopted 10-0-0, and the meeting stood adjourned at 10:45 p.m.
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